Barefooter's Rasp

[M_O_Connor]

My farrier meets with other farriers in a group a couple times a month–he told me that they had received information about the Rider’s Rasp, but that he hadn’t yet seen one. He thought that the idea behind it was sound, and that it seemed to be well designed for the job it’s meant for, keeping the edges rounded in between trims, smoothing rough spots in advance of them becoming cracks, chips, etc.

I happened to see one at the feed store and purchased it, telling them I’d be bringing it back if we were disappointed by it.

I did have to get my farrier to explain to me how to use it–I hadn’t noticed that the two files are in opposite directions, and that you need to use it, then flip it over and go over the area you’re working on again to get the intended rounded-edge effect. I found it much easier and less hazardous to use than my large rasp, and way less problematic to balance the hoof against. I am strictly a beginner when it comes to using farrier tools, and do not plan to do my farrier’s job.

I’m finding myself using the RR a few times a week on various horses as I care for their feet. It does what it says it does, pretty well in fact, and I can use it more easily than I can use a full sized rasp. So it has earned a spot on my tack shelf.

[system]

[QUOTE=Shadow14;4006415]
You seem to be taking this personal. Do you work for the company??
I have been a farrier for 22 years and thought if was a dumb idea from the start.[/QUOTE]

I did take comments way too personally, oops, I believe in RidersRasp. Sharp edges cause stress on the hoof wall and can lead to cracking, right? So what is so dumb about safely removing sharp edges in between your trims? I don’t have a hoof stand nor can I handle a regular rasp. RidersRasp is a great option for my situation. That is news worth sharing;) I know RidersRasp is not a gimmick, and I know it does not have sandpaper rasps…so why not challenge misunderstandings and share what I know?

[matryoshka]

I haven’t seen the tool personally, but it does look good as a tool for riders who don’t want to take a farrier’s class to learn how to keep their horse’s feet round. If it encourages a rider to keep the edges of their horse’s feet smooth, it is worth the price.

It seems much easier to use without getting cut (I get knicks all over my hands whenever I bring out a fresh rasp). Because of the design, they also aren’t going to accidentally great a low spot the way it can happen with a full rasp–A2 should be happy, because it would be impossible to scoop quarters with the thing.

I don’t know why some farriers get wound around the axle about this, since it should make their job easier if clients keep up with it. Unless riders are using it as a way to extend intervals between trims. That could be a problem, because feet can develop imbalances between trims based on how the horse wears, which is subject to his conformation. On some horses, extending the interval between trims will end up in lameness issues. Also, it is harder on the farrier when the owner lets too much time pass between trims.

[system]

Riders Rasp is TOO DULL

I bought one & it is quite comfortable to HOLD but the rasp is simply too dull. When I complained to the company they responded that they will be coming out with a “Medium Coarse” replacement insert in about a month.

I wish they would offer free replacement of the EXISTING insert as it is really quite useless.

Great idea but I think they got off on the wrong foot.

So to speak.

[gypsymare]

I just think it’s a waste of money. Your farrier probably has a few dull rasps lying around and dull for them should still be plenty sharp to round up some edges. You probably have a pair of cowhide gloves or even old winter or gardening gloves that you can use. Those brown cotton ones are only about $1-2 if you don’t. You don’t need an apron, just an old pair of jeans because you probably will hit them. Or you can just do the whole thing with the horse’s leg pulled back instead of forward. Palm the rasp, use light and long strokes. If it’s skipping and biting in use less pressure. Your farrier can show you the correct technique. Really if your goal is just a bit of rounding or knocking down a chip it is not that difficult.

[Zu_Zu]

I purchased one also – very disappointed!!. Better Than Nothing ? NO!!! The company told me that I was literally the ONLY ONE who had complained - they were at Rolex - will refund my $ - first wanted me to watch vidoes again and sent me new blades! Very nice of them - but still whether I use it on a barefoot pony or a pony who threw a shoe — or the horse version of barefoot or thrown a show – Does not do enough - practically worthless - but easy to hold – MONEY BACK PLEASE!!!

[matryoshka]

Good to know. I’ll pass this stuff on to any more clients who ask about it. Thanks!